AMIDST the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic ravaging the nation particularly this part of the region, the science department and Secretary Fortunato T. de la Pena’s unwavering devotion to public service still persist especially in the highlands where the indigenous Dumagat community resides at Bgy. San Mateo, Norzagaray, Bulacan.

It was February 15, 2021 when the Department of Science and Technology –Provincial Science and Technology Center Bulacan (DOST PSTC Bulacan) and staff led by Provincial S&T Director Ms Angelita Parungao in coordination with the Brgy San Mateo Mother-Leaders.

The group trekked and climbed the boondocks and river tributaries along the IPO Dam in a bid to reach the isolated Dumagat community situated at Sitio Sapang Munti.

The activity was done as an initial technical assistance to the community of the indigenous people under the Expanded Community Empowerment thru Science and Technology (eCEST) program, the DOST Bulacan staff conducted water sampling on the various natural sources of drinking water in the area.

The retrieved water samples will be taken and tested for potability at the DOST Regional Standards and Testing Laboratory in the City of San Fernando, Pampanga and depending on the result of the potability test will be the technical assistance on water purification for the indigenous Dumagat community.

We can truly say “Thanks to Science” for amidst the advent of technology in the cities, the science department doesn’t set aside the importance of the welfare of the original Bulakenyos

“This was a preliminary activity for our Expanded Community Empowerment thru Science and Technology Program (eCEST) for the Indigenous Community in Bulacan. There are 5 entry points:

1. Basic Education  

2. Livelihood (Vegetable gardening and handicraft)

3. Health and Nutrition (Feeding program for 120 days 0-5 years old)

4. Water sanitation

5. Disaster Risk Reduction program

Launching of the feeding program will be on Feb. 24..” according to Provincial S&T Director Ms Angelita Parungao .

In relation to this, the Sanggunian Panlalawigan of the Province of Bulacan formally introduced its newest member, Board Member Liberato P. Sembrano, an indigenous Dumagat whom will be representing the province’ Dumagat Community.

MJ Olvina- Balaguer of DZMJ Online, Makabuluhang Jornalismo your hapiness channel +639053611058, maryjaneolvina@gmail.com